Prepare Yourself

A daily schedule to help small-group leaders prepare for leading a lesson

Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning." Proverbs 9:9 (NIV)

DAY ONE

  1. Pray, asking God to speak to you through His Word.
  2. Read the selected passage in several translations.
  3. Look for a central truth of the passage to be discussed.

DAY TWO

  1. Pray for group members.
  2. Begin consulting a Bible dictionary and other study tools.
  3. Interact with other group leaders who have taught this material. Involve your apprentice to lead the Bible study with you.

DAY THREE

  1. Pray for other group leaders.
  2. Read other commentaries.
  3. Reflect on the needs of the group members and possible learning goals for the study.

DAY FOUR

  1. Pray for your church, the pastor and staff.
  2. Clarify your teaching goal. Write it out.
  3. Brainstorm possible interactive learning activities.

DAY FIVE

  1. Pray for the lesson to come together.
  2. Read through the Scripture passage again.
  3. Write out questions you may have about the passage.

DAY SIX

  1. Pray for guests who have visited your group.
  2. Write out learning activities.
  3. Complete a detailed lesson plan.

SMALL GROUP MEETING DAY

  1. Pray, asking God to bless your preparation as you and your apprentice lead the group in Bible study.
  2. Gather your materials for the Bible study.
  3. Rehearse in your mind how to progress step by step.

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